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Welding Instructor Jobs in Merced, CA (NOW HIRING)

Cal Cat Industries, LLC

Welder

Hughson, CA · On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Specialize in one of several processes of welding. Works under direct supervision and follows standard procedures and written instructions to accomplish assigned welding tasks. ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

Cornerstone Building Brands

Welder I

Atwater, CA

$23 - $25.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will have a thorough knowledge of welding techniques and have a high attention to detail in a fast-paced production environment. * Knows and understands all safety rules and ...

Cornerstone Building Brands

Welder I

Atwater, CA · On-site

$23 - $25.75/hr

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will have a thorough knowledge of welding techniques and have a high attention to detail in a fast-paced production environment. * Knows and understands all safety rules and ...

Cornerstone Building Brands

Welder I

Atwater, CA

  • Medical

  • Dental

  • Vision

  • Life

  • Retirement

  • PTO

The ideal candidate will have a thorough knowledge of welding techniques and have a high attention to detail in a fast-paced production environment. * Knows and understands all safety rules and ...

All JobsWelding Instructor JobsWelding Instructor Jobs in Merced, CA

Welding Instructor information

See Merced, CA salary details

$39.6K

$65K

$112.5K

How much do welding instructor jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 19, 2026, the average yearly pay for welding instructor in Merced, CA is $64,997.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $52,800.00 and $67,600.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a welding instructor?

Welding Instructors are professionals who teach students the skills and safety procedures needed for welding. They develop lesson plans, demonstrate various welding techniques, and supervise hands-on practice in classroom or workshop settings. Instructors also assess students’ progress, provide feedback, and ensure that all training adheres to industry standards. Their goal is to prepare students for careers in welding and related fields by imparting both theoretical knowledge and practical experience.

What does a welding instructor do?

A welding instructor is a master welder who provides training for students who want to become welders. As a welding instructor, your primary responsibilities involve teaching your craft to students by demonstrating welding techniques, tools, and skills. You need an associate degree or a bachelor’s degree in welding technology to become a teacher of welding techniques. You also need experience with arc welders, welding shields, automated cutting torches, computerized welding software, and other welding tools.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as a welding instructor, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Welding Instructor, you need expert welding skills, in-depth knowledge of safety protocols, and a relevant certification such as AWS Certified Welding Educator (CWE) or Certified Welding Inspector (CWI). Familiarity with various welding equipment, instructional technology, and curriculum development tools is typically required. Strong communication, patience, and the ability to motivate and mentor students are vital soft skills in this role. These skills and qualities are essential for effectively teaching safe and high-quality welding techniques, preparing students for industry standards, and ensuring a productive learning environment.

What are some common challenges welding instructors face when training students with varying skill levels?

Welding Instructors often work with students who have a wide range of experience, from complete beginners to those with some hands-on practice. Balancing lesson plans to ensure everyone progresses can be challenging, as some students may need extra guidance on safety protocols or technique, while others may be ready for advanced projects. Instructors must adapt their teaching style, provide individualized feedback, and foster an inclusive environment where all students feel comfortable asking questions. Effective communication and patience are key to helping every student build confidence and competence in welding.

What is the difference between Welding Instructor vs Welding Technician?

AspectWelding InstructorWelding Technician
CredentialsWelding certification, teaching credentials (if required)Welding certification, technical training
Work EnvironmentClassroom, training labs, workshopsManufacturing, construction sites, repair shops
Employer & IndustryEducational institutions, vocational schoolsManufacturers, construction companies, repair services

Welding Instructors primarily teach welding techniques and safety in educational settings, focusing on training students. Welding Technicians perform hands-on welding work in industrial environments, applying their skills to manufacturing or construction projects. While both roles require welding certifications, instructors focus on education, whereas technicians focus on practical application.

How much do welding instructors make in the US?

Welding instructors in the US typically earn between $40,000 and $70,000 annually, depending on experience, location, and the type of institution. Those with certifications in welding and teaching skills may earn higher salaries, especially at technical colleges or vocational schools.
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Welding Instructor jobs near you
Infographic showing various Welding Instructor job openings in Merced, CA as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 67% Full Time, and 33% Part Time. Highlights an 100% In-person job distribution, with an average salary of $64,997 per year, or $31.2 per hour.

Welder

Cal Cat Industries, LLC

Hughson, CA • On-site

$20.25 - $26.75/hr

Full-time

Re-posted 7 days ago

Job description

Description:Job description

JOB SUMMARY

Applies basic skills and advanced skills using tools and equipment appropriate for welding. Specialize in one of several processes of welding. Works under direct supervision and follows standard procedures and written instructions to accomplish assigned welding tasks.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS

  • Resolve routine questions and problems and refers more complex issues to higher levels
  • Accurately interpret and apply information from work orders, job orders, specifications, blueprints, ISO’s or other drawings and recognize basic blueprint terms and symbols for job application
  • Identify, recognize and demonstrate safe usage of hand tools and power tools appropriate for the job
  • Recognize various materials used in the craft and demonstrate a working knowledge of appropriate material handling techniques
  • Select and safely use appropriate equipment, which may include, but not limited to: man lifts. Forklifts, and company trucks
  • Identify, recognize and demonstrate safe usage of appropriate personal protective equipment for the craft
  • Weld materials such as stainless steel, mild steel and aluminum
  • Plan work by interpreting blueprints
  • Select and set up welding equipment based on safety guidelines
  • Ensures welds meet standards and specifications
  • Grind and finish welds to make aesthetically appealing
  • De-burring of metal parts using both powered and non-powered means
  • Washing, stripping and painting of finished metal products
  • Attention to details
  • Perform daily housekeeping tasks (5S) and preventative maintenance tasks
  • The employee must participate in safety meetings, safety programs and the quality process
  • Clean, wrap, move and load completed product to prepare for shipping
Requirements:

Education:

  • High school or equivalent (Required)

Experience:

  • Fabrication: 1 year (Preferred)
  • TIG welding: 2 years (Required)
  • MIG welding: 2 years (Required)

License/Certification:

  • CA Driver's License (Required)

QUALIFICATIONS

  • Vocational certificate for related field, preferred.
  • 5+ years of welding experience preferred.
  • Ability to read and understand blueprints.
  • Ability to communicate effectively verbally.
  • Work requires strong attention to detail and high focus on safety and quality.
  • Ability to use basic hand tools and power tools.
  • Able to safely operate 6,000 lb. forklift.
  • Ability to read measuring devices.
  • Basic Math skills required.
  • Ability to safely operate equipment (welder, torch, plasma cutter, grinder, material handling equipment)
  • Ability to distinguish the various thickness and type of material.
  • Must pass welding skills test on material in use.
  • Knowledge of de-burring, grinding, polishing and striping is desirable.
  • Stainless TIG welding skills required.
  • Must be able and willing to work additional hours and weekends to meet business needs.